Rack

A rack is a machine element used in mechanical systems to transmit motion. Essentially, it is a bar with evenly spaced teeth that mesh with a gear. This arrangement makes it possible to convert a rotational motion of the gear into a linear motion of the rack, or conversely, a linear motion of the rack into a rotational motion of the gear.

Racks and gears therefore work in tandem and form what is known as a rack-and-pinion drive. When the gear rotates, it meshes with the teeth of the rack and moves it linearly. This mechanism is used in a wide variety of applications, for example in vehicle steering systems, hoists and various industrial machines where precise linear movements are required.

The accuracy and efficiency of this motion transmission make racks an indispensable component of many technical systems.